Harford County has experienced hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and even earthquakes over the years. First responders and other emergency professionals work to keep everyone safe, but citizens can also make a big difference in their own communities. September is National Preparedness Month, and an opportunity to plan ahead for severe weather and other emergencies. County Executive Barry Glassman and the Harford County Department of Emergency Services urge you to plan how you will communicate and stay safe when the next disaster strikes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL5LNcnsepo
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All year long, the Department of Emergency Services develops plans for mitigation, prevention, preparedness, response and recovery in all types of hazards. You can prepare by staying informed, making a plan and building a kit to help your family and pets survive until help arrives.
Stay informed by signing up for emergency notifications at https://portal.blackboardconnectcty.com/welcome.aspx?eiid=1207B6088C3676A6697E
For emergency broadcasts, listen to radio stations WXCY 103.7 FM and WHFC 91.1 FM.
A basic emergency plan should consider the following:
- How will my household get emergency alerts and warnings?
- Where are the nearest safe locations and how will we get there?
- How will we communicate if cell phone, internet, or landlines are not working?
- How will I let loved ones know that I am safe?
- Where is our meeting place following an emergency?
A basic emergency kit should include:
- One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- A minimum three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered radio and NOAA weather radio with tone alert
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Manual can opener for food
- Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
For additional information on making a plan and building a kit, please go to http://www.harfordpublicsafety.org/EmerPlan/Prepared.cfm or www.ready.gov
If you have a business or other organization, creating a continuity and recovery plan is essential to quickly resuming operations after a devastating storm or crisis. For more information call 410-638-4900.
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